If you’re like me, (a big honkin’ dork), your definition of fun is a little bit different than everyone else’s. For example, I became giddy today because I realized that I had some free time set aside to learn Django, a Python framework. I’m starting a fun little project to create a blogging platform for my new development blog Web Jackalope. I get goosebumps thinking about all the python learning I’m going to do in the very near future.

Yes, it’s true.

This is what makes creative people and nerds everywhere different: We love creating, even just for fun. Consequently, it’s also what makes us really really successful. The fact that we can get our jollies learning more about our craft also makes us more knowledgeable and marketable.

Unfortunately, this is also what makes us “dorks” to the rest of the world. The fact that our fun is also derived from our work skills is unthinkable to those who hate their job. An office worker couldn’t fathom the thought going into the office on Saturday and sending faxes. For fun. But there is a difference here.

The difference is we’re creators. We take pleasuring in creating. Not pushing buttons, not sending faxes, but actually creating something.

I know plenty of designers who like nothing better than sitting down and creating a cool illustration. Ever wonder why designers are always changing their personal blog or portfolio design?